Bud Cook should be rehired
We have known Bud Cook, prior to, and after his election as the representative of the 49th Legislative District of Pennsylvania, which includes parts of Fayette and Washington counties. Bud Cook, a native of Washington County, has a unique understanding of the challenges facing these two counties. He has traveled extensively throughout the same, walking door-to-door, speaking directly to his constituents and additionally, holding public meetings where they may express needs. He brought that knowledge and understanding to Harrisburg, where he works to frame legislation to help meet those needs.
Bud’s dedication to this effort earned the American Conservative Union Foundation’s Award. Out of 253 Pennsylvania lawmakers, Representative Cook was among a select group of only 17 who received a 100 percent rating for voting most consistently with the ideals articulated in our State and Federal Constitutions; limited government, personal responsibilities, and lasting cultural values. These are the ideals you expressed to him in his interactions with you, his bosses.
Economic development: Bud Cook has interviewed various industries in Washington and Fayette counties to discuss job opportunities for his constituents, and at the same time focusing on agreements instituted by former administrations that limit the growth of the job market. A review of these agreements and legislative action leading to change may be in order. Mr. Cook is leading the way to make this happen.
Mr. Cook recognizes that the “powers that be” in Harrisburg have too long ignored Western Pennsylvania and limited its growth by supporting only larger cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh at the expense of our counties. It is time for Pennsylvania dollars to be focused on the needs of the Mon Valley. He utilizes every opportunity to force this issue.
Representative Cook envisions that renewed use of the Monongahela River as a transportation highway, with industrial development revitalized on both sides of the river, will foster great job growth. Financial tax incentives, along with grant programs could make this happen. Mr. Cook can, and does, lead the way in alerting businesses and organizations of this potential.
A plan to address environmental issues in Fayette and Washington counties through an organized program for recycling, is one in which Bud Cook is taking a leadership role. The plan begins with the involvement of area schools and the creation of managed collection sites throughout both counties. A revenue stream from the sale of recycled materials will be used to help lessen the burden of school taxes and at the same time create jobs in the management of such sites.
Under Bud Cook’s leadership, there are plans for the creation of an educational program that would enable incarcerated prisoners in state prisons to learn a trade in the fields of carpentry, brick laying, and home maintenance and repair. The goal of this program is to enable prisoners to find work upon release and at the same time lower the rate of recidivism. As part of this program, prisoners/apprentices would receive on-the-job training by participating in the rehabilitation of blighted properties.
We think Representative Cook deserves to be rehired to represent you in the 49th District where he can continue his good work.
Theodore Davi is a resident of Greensburg